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Microinjection of Western Corn Rootworm, Diabrotica virgifera virgifera, Embryos for Germline Transformation, or CRISPR/Cas9 Genome Editing
Published on: April 27, 2018
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A selective insecticidal protein from Pseudomonas for controlling corn rootworms.
Ute Schellenberger1, Jarred Oral1, Barbara A Rosen1
1DuPont Pioneer, Hayward, CA 94545, USA.
Science (New York, N.Y.)
|October 7, 2016
Summary
A new insecticidal protein, IPD072Aa, from Pseudomonas chlororaphis effectively controls western corn rootworm (WCR) larvae. This discovery offers a vital tool against WCR resistant to current Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) corn varieties.
Area of Science:
- Agricultural Entomology
- Molecular Biology
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Western corn rootworm (WCR) is a major pest in North America and Europe.
- Insect resistance to Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) proteins in corn limits current control strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and characterize a novel insecticidal protein effective against WCR.
- To evaluate the efficacy of transgenic corn expressing this new protein against WCR.
Main Methods:
- Isolation and characterization of the insecticidal protein IPD072Aa from Pseudomonas chlororaphis.
- Development of transgenic corn plants expressing IPD072Aa.
- Field trials to assess protection against WCR injury.
Main Results:
- Transgenic corn expressing IPD072Aa demonstrated significant protection against WCR damage.
- IPD072Aa effectively killed WCR larvae, including those resistant to Bt proteins.
- IPD072Aa showed no adverse effects on beneficial lepidopteran and hemipteran species.
Conclusions:
- IPD072Aa represents a promising new tool for managing WCR, particularly Bt-resistant populations.
- This protein can be utilized in transgenic corn to enhance crop protection strategies.
- Further research may explore broader applications of IPD072Aa in pest management.
